Varied Carpet Beetle

Found indoors in upholstered furniture, closets, and air ducts; outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Larvae scavenge on keratin and chitin found in animal products like wool, silk, feathers, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

They are a common household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and blankets. Larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.